Authors:
Chibuzo V. Ikwuagwu, Okwo A. Somtochukwu, Ifeama P. Chukwuemelie, Ikechukwu E. Okoh

Addresses:
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria. Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Sower and Energy Development, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria. Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, Michigan, United States of America.

Abstract:

Efficient sand grading is critical to concrete quality, productivity, and occupational safety in construction activities, particularly in developing economies where manual sieving remains prevalent. This study presents the design, fabrication, and experimental evaluation of an automatic vibratory sand sieving machine incorporating wireless variable-speed control. The system integrates an inclined double-layer sieve assembly, an eccentric-mass vibration mechanism, spring isolation, and a Bluetooth-enabled speed control unit based on an ESP32 microcontroller. Performance evaluation was conducted using dry river sand across a wide operating speed range. The results demonstrate that the developed machine achieves sieving efficiencies of 78-94%, with optimal performance at approximately 1,100 rpm and an inclination angle of 18°, corresponding to a throughput of 31–33 kg/min. Power consumption increased quasi-linearly with speed, remaining within the 0.5 HP motor's rated capacity. Compared with manual sieving, the proposed system delivers more than a fivefold increase in productivity while significantly reducing operator exposure to dust and vibration. The combination of low fabrication costs, local material sourcing, and wireless control positions the machine as a practical, scalable solution for small- and medium-scale construction enterprises.

Keywords: Vibratory Sieving; Sand Separation; Wireless Speed Control; Construction Machinery; Particle Screening; Sand Grading; Performance Evaluation; Sieving Machine.

Received on: 18/11/2024, Revised on: 25/01/2025, Accepted on: 11/03/2025, Published on: 07/12/2025

DOI: 10.69888/FTSSM.2025.000574

FMDB Transactions on Sustainable Structures and Materials, 2025 Vol. 1 No. 2, Pages: 79-90

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